Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) is one of the most common birth defects, affecting approximately 1% of live births globally and accounting for more than 4.18 million cases in children under five¹. Despite advances in medical care, CHD continues to be a leading cause of infant and child mortality, highlighting the need for safe and minimally invasive treatment options. Commonly identified congenital heart defects include atrial septal defect (ASD), patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), and ventricular septal defect (VSD). Additionally, structural heart defects like patent foramen ovale (PFO) is also a common defect impacting approximately 25% adults globally². These defects are typically treated using occluders, which are catheter-based devices designed to close abnormal openings in the heart.

SMT’s Occluder devices used for closure of congenital and structural heart defects

The Cocoon Occluder portfolio from SMT offers catheter-based devices for the closure of all four types of defects through a minimally invasive approach. Each device is engineered with SMT’s proprietary platinum coating technology, providing biocompatibility and fluoroscopic visibility to ensure precise placement and long-term outcomes.

Recent global clinical studies continue to validate the safety and efficacy of the Cocoon Occluder family:

• Cocoon Septal Occluder demonstrated a >99% acute closure rate with no device-related adverse events at 43-month follow-up, as reported in the Hellenic Journal of Cardiology [2021;62(3):206–211]³, reaffirming its long-term safety and effectiveness for ASD closure.

• Cocoon PFO Occluder demonstrated a >98% acute closure rate with no major complications, according to findings in the Hellenic Journal of Cardiology [2024;75:21–25]⁴, underscoring its consistent performance and favourable clinical outcomes.

Over the past two decades, Cocoon devices have been successfully implanted, benefiting both paediatric and adult patients across 47 countries (as of March 31, 2025).

Continuing its mission to advance cardiovascular care, SMT will soon initiate the SAFE-PFO randomized controlled trial, enrolling 1,260 patients across Europe and the UK. This study will directly compare the Cocoon PFO Occluder with the Amplatzer PFO Closure Device Family, aiming to further strengthen clinical evidence for treatment of PFO patients with a history of stroke.

Bhargav Kotadia, CEO, Sahajanand Medical Technologies, said, “The Cocoon journey has been about impact. Over the past 20 years, our devices have been implanted in more than 100,000 patients, offering children and adults a safer, less invasive option for treating congenital & structural heart defects. As we look ahead, SMT remains committed to advancing cardiovascular care and saving lives worldwide.”

About SMT (Sahajanand Medical Technologies)
SMT (Sahajanand Medical Technologies) is a medical devices company with a portfolio of technologically advanced medical devices across vascular and structural heart intervention. SMT offers an extensive portfolio of products focusing on vascular intervention and was the first company in the world to receive CE certification for a DES with a biodegradable polymer. SMT has a global presence with its footprints in more than 75 countries, as on March 31, 2025.

For further updates, please the website or follow SMT on LinkedIn.

References: 

1. www.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40454242

2. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493151

3. www.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33484876

4. www,pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37127207

Disclaimer
Sahajanand Medical Technologies Limited is proposing, subject to receipt of requisite approvals, market conditions and other considerations, an initial public offer of its equity shares and has filed a draft red herring prospectus dated July 25, 2025 (“DRHP”) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (“SEBI”) and the stock exchanges. The DRHP is available on our website at www.smtpl.com as well as on the website of SEBI at www.sebi.gov.in, Motilal Oswal Investment Advisors Limited at www.motilaloswalgroup.com, Avendus Capital Private Limited at www.avendus.com, HSBC Securities and Capital Markets (India) Private Limited at www.business.hsbc.co.in and Nuvama Wealth Management Limited at www.nuvama.com and and the websites of the stock exchange(s) at www.nseindia.com and www.bseindia.com, respectively. Any potential investor should note that investment in equity shares involves a high degree of risk and refer to the Red Herring Prospectus, including the section titled “Risk Factors” of the Red Herring Prospectus when available, for details. Potential investors should not rely on the DRHP for any investment decision.

Amplatzer™ Occluder devices are registered trademarks of Abbott or its subsidiaries. 

• In its third edition and first-ever Delhi debut, Nykaaland brought together 30,000+ beauty lovers, 60+ global and homegrown brands, and 3,000+ icons including India’s leading celebrities, make-up artists, and creators, signalling the country’s accelerating shift toward premium beauty experiences

• Rasha Thadani, Aditi Rao Hydari, Aditya Roy Kapur, Ananya Birla, Taapsee Pannu, Banita Sandu, Rahul Dua, Harsh Gujral, and Shraddha Naik added star power, H&M took over the spotlight stage, and Prateek Kuhad, Panjabi MC, Jonita Gandhi, Dot., Gini, Nida, and DJ MoCity set the stage alive across three unforgettable days

• Masterclasses by Daniel Bauer, Namrata Soni, Mehak Oberoi, and Meera Sakhrani redefined artistry, education, and authenticity for India’s new-age beauty audience

Delhi turned pink this weekend as Nykaaland 3.0, India’s largest and most immersive beauty playground, made its spectacular Capital debut. Co-produced by Nykaa, India’s leading beauty and lifestyle destination, and BookMyShow Live, the live entertainment experiential division of BookMyShow, the three-day festival transformed NSIC Grounds, Okhla, into a cultural epicentre for beauty, music, and creativity.

Nykaaland 3.0 Welcomes 30,000+ Attendees in its First-Ever Delhi Edition

Attracting 30,000+ beauty enthusiasts, 60+ global and homegrown brands, and 3,000+ icons including celebrities, India’s leading celebrity makeup artists, and creators, Nykaaland 3.0 marked the festival’s expansion beyond Mumbai, cementing its place as India’s definitive beauty movement. The festival not only opened a bold new chapter with its Delhi debut but also reinforced Nykaaland’s growing influence as India’s leading hub for creator-led commerce.

Beauty in India is no longer confined to products — it’s a lifestyle, a language, and a cultural statement. At Nykaaland 3.0, this evolution came alive with an unparalleled lineup of global icons — YSL Beauty, Armani Beauty, Carolina Herrera, Dolce & Gabbana Beauty, Supergoop!, MILK Makeup, TIRTIR, and Kylie Cosmetics — alongside Indian innovators redefining ‘Made in India’ beauty such as Kay Beauty, LovETC, Sammmm, ThriveCo, Minimalist, Nykaa Cosmetics, Moi by Nykaa, Dot & Key, Nykaa Wanderlust, Earth Rhythm, and Swiss Beauty. For consumers seeking efficacy and ingredient-led rituals, Nykaaland 2025 brought the best of Seoul for Korean Beauty lovers – Laneige, Beauty of Joseon, Sulwhasoo, Ryo, and Mise En Scène. Fashion joined the celebration with Nykd by Nykaa and H&M, bridging the worlds of style and beauty.

Anchit Nayar, Executive Director and CEO, Nykaa Beauty, said, “Nykaaland 3.0 marks a defining moment for India’s beauty ecosystem. With over 30,000 attendees at our first-ever Delhi edition, the festival has evolved into India’s largest immersive beauty platform, where creators, the best of global and homegrown brands, and consumers converge in meaningful ways. The scale, engagement, and enthusiasm we witnessed reinforce that beauty in India is no longer just transactional; it is experiential, cultural, and community driven. Nykaaland continues to set the benchmark for premium, creator-led commerce, and we are excited to lead the next chapter of India’s beauty evolution hand in hand with our brand partners.”

Owen Roncon, Chief Business Officer – Branded IPs, BookMyShow, said, “Delhi embraced Nykaaland with a spirit that was bold, vibrant and unmistakably its own, making this third edition yet another defining chapter in the festival’s journey. The city’s deep love for beauty, culture and self-expression found its perfect match in what Nykaaland stands for. Watching audiences immerse themselves so wholeheartedly reaffirmed what the festival has always aimed to do – create a space where creativity, identity and celebration come together in the most personal way.”

Three Days. Infinite Moments. One Beauty Movement.

Day 1: Chrome, Colour & Connection

The festival opened with a burst of brilliance as Rasha Thadani, Brand Ambassador for Nykaa Cosmetics, took over the stage for Chrome It Up with Nykaa Cosmetics. Her high-shine look set the tone for a weekend of bold creativity. Adding to the excitement, Kylie Cosmetics made its India debut at Nykaaland, with fans queuing up to experience the brand’s iconic bestsellers firsthand. Laughter soon followed with Nykaa x YouTube Shopping hosted by Rahul Dua and Mridul Sharma, while Nykaa Play Game Shows with e.l.f. Cosmetics and Bath & Body Works kept crowds buzzing. As the sun dipped, DJ MoCity, Dynamite Discoclub SoundSystem, and Nida closed the night with rhythm and radiance.

Day 2: Artistry, Expression & Star Power

The second day belonged to the masters of makeup. Daniel Bauer shared his cinematic secrets in Frame by Frame: Mastering Makeup for the Camera, while Ankush Bahuguna and Dr. Aparajita Lamba decoded skincare science in Smooth Skin Era with Cetaphil. Shraddha Naik and Bahaar Dhawan explored Gen-Z glam in Bollywood Goes Chrome, followed by Red Carpet Glam Demystified with Mehak Oberoi and Amulya Rattan, who translated red-carpet beauty for real life. Evening highlights included Nykaa Play Live with Harsh Gujral, and the much-loved LovETC session featuring Ananya Birla and Aditya Roy Kapur — blending chemistry, conversation, and charisma. homegrown indie rising star, Gini’s soulful set led into one of India’s most-loved artist, singer-songwriter Prateek Kuhad’s headline performance, turning the arena into a sea of lights and emotion setting the stage with ‘Mulaqat’, followed by crowd favourites like ‘Co2’, ‘Tum Jab Pass’ and ‘Kasoor’.

Day 3: Glow, Groove & Gratitude

The final day opened with Master Your Glow: Dusk to Dawn by TIRTIR, where Meera Sakhrani and Nitibha Kaul shared glow-enhancing rituals. A stunning L’Oréal Paris Showcase followed with Aditi Rao Hydari and Mitesh Rajani, while Taapsee Pannu brought her trademark energy to Swiss Beauty’s Got You, Girl!. Samaira Sandhu’s Kay Beauty Masterclass, Namrata Soni’s Bridal Beauty Secrets, and In My MAC Era by Leiya Phinao Ningshen and Saikat Chakraborty wrapped up the education series. The night exploded with performances from Dot. bringing her love for contemporary music getting fans swaying to ‘Everybody Dances To Techno’, Panjabi MC with his cult-classic ‘Mundian To Bach Ke’, and Jonita Gandhi dropping her banger Bollywood chart-toppers, ‘What Jhumka’, ‘Deva Deva’, ‘Love Like That’ and ‘Sitara’ also surprising fans with her recent release with Ed Sheeran, Heaven’, whose electric finale sealed Nykaaland 3.0 as an unforgettable celebration of beauty, belonging, and joy.

Nykaaland — Beyond a Festival, a Movement Shaping India’s Beauty Culture

Nykaa has ignited India’s beauty revolution, bringing global innovation, homegrown creativity, and everyday self-expression into one dynamic conversation. Today, Nykaaland is shaping the next chapter of that story—an immersive, experiential platform that transforms beauty from something consumers can buy into something they can truly feel. Over its first two editions in Mumbai, Nykaaland welcomed 40,000+ attendees, offering consumers direct access to brands and fostering genuine trust and meaningful conversion. With Nykaaland 3.0 drawing 30,000+ attendees in Delhi, the festival’s reach and influence continue to soar, cementing its position as India’s most influential celebration of beauty, community, and culture.

Follow @Nykaaland on Instagram for highlights.

With the evolution in the Indian real estate market, the meaning of luxury is changing. It is no longer confined to opulent interiors or grand architecture; today, luxury is defined by thoughtful design, community-driven living, and spaces that add long-term value to life. Among the few developers championing this shift is MRG Group, a name that has come to represent design intelligence, comfort, and responsible luxury.

Designing Luxury, Redefining Value: Inside the Mind of MRG Group’s Leadership

Under the guidance of Rajjath Goel, Managing Director, MRG Group, the brand has consistently challenged traditional notions of high-end living. For him, luxury is not about excess but about balance, purpose, and emotional comfort. Every MRG project is designed to create a seamless connection between aesthetics and practicality, individual well-being and community connection.

Modern homebuyers, especially in urban markets like Gurugram, are increasingly looking beyond superficial extravagance. They value how a home feels, functions, and fits into their lifestyle. For them, luxury means an environment that supports well-being, encourages interaction, and provides space to live meaningfully. MRG Group has aligned itself perfectly with this mindset. The company’s design philosophy focuses on creating value through experience. Every project is developed with residents’ needs at the core, offering layouts that promote comfort, ventilation, natural light, and green surroundings. This approach allows MRG to deliver homes that feel timeless and intuitive, where design enhances everyday living.

Besides, the essence of MRG’s philosophy is best seen in MRG Crown on Dwarka Expressway, one of the group’s landmark developments. Spread across 8.16 acres, the project is built around the idea of low-density, lifestyle-rich living. It features 436 independent floor residences and 109 plots, designed to offer privacy, openness, and exclusivity in equal measure.

The architecture emphasizes space and serenity. The central highlight, a 1.5-acre Leisure Island, serves as a natural green retreat within the community. Complementing it is a 22,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, which offers premium amenities such as a half Olympic-sized swimming pool, multi-sport courts, wellness areas, and refined lounge spaces. Every feature has been thoughtfully curated to create an atmosphere of comfort and connection.

Beyond design and architecture, MRG Crown integrates convenience and sustainability through features like EV charging stations, private terrace gardens, work-from-home basements, and energy-efficient planning. Each detail reinforces the idea that true luxury lies not in extravagance but in creating spaces that improve the quality of life.

At the core of MRG Group’s design philosophy is the leadership vision of Rajjath Goel. His approach to real estate is deeply rooted in empathy, innovation, and authenticity.

“Luxury for us is not about extravagance. It is about balance. It is about creating homes where design serves both beauty and purpose. At MRG Crown, we have curated an environment where privacy, wellness, and togetherness coexist harmoniously. Every detail, from the layout to the landscape, is crafted to deliver emotional as well as experiential value. We believe true luxury is when a home feels timeless, relevant, and deeply personal,” says Rajjath Goel, Managing Director, MRG Group.

This leadership mindset has helped MRG redefine luxury as a feeling rather than a format. The group’s focus on how spaces make people feel has led to developments that foster both comfort and connection, turning every project into a living experience rather than just an address.

Moreover, in an era where environmental awareness is reshaping consumer choices, MRG Group stands out for embedding sustainability into its design DNA. The company incorporates eco-friendly practices such as rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient architecture, and effective waste management. These initiatives are not treated as optional add-ons but as essential elements that define responsible luxury. Projects like MRG Crown demonstrate that premium living can coexist with environmental care, offering a lifestyle that is elegant yet ethical.

Therefore, as the preferences of homebuyers continue to evolve, MRG Group’s leadership vision provides a blueprint for the future of premium living in India. The group’s projects are setting new benchmarks by blending thoughtful design, sustainable practices, and community-driven planning. Each development reflects an understanding that luxury today is about timeless comfort, everyday convenience, and emotional connection. In doing so, MRG is redefining the concept of value in real estate and setting new standards for what it truly means to live well in the modern world. 

Weddings in India are more than ceremonies, they’re moments of joy, new beginnings, and the promise of building a beautiful home together. Celebrating this spirit, Philips Home Appliances has launched its all-new wedding campaign, “Happy Honeymoon Travels”, designed to make newlywed life easier, warmer, and more delightful with smart, meaningful appliances that elevate every moment, from daily coffee rituals to honeymoon packing.

Happy Honeymoon Travels with Philips

The Happy Honeymoon Travels campaign, which started on 5^th November, offers customers the opportunity to win exciting prizes on the purchase of Philips products worth Rs. 1,000 and above till 15th December. The campaign brings a mix of daily, weekly, and mega rewards to delight Philips consumers:

• Daily Winner: Philips Dual Basket Air fryer

• Weekly Winner: Travel voucher worth Rs. 75,000

• Mega Winner: Travel voucher worth Rs. 2,00,000

At the heart of this campaign lies Philips’ understanding of young Indian couples who seek comfort, convenience, and style as they step into a new chapter. Through its wedding-exclusive bundles and offers, Philips brings together its most loved innovations, from Airfryers and Garment Steamers to Coffee Machines and Air Purifiers ensuring that couples begin their married life with ease, confidence, and a touch of celebration.

Speaking about the launch, Pooja Baid, Chief Marketing Officer, Versuni India, said, “For today’s couples, setting up a home is as exciting as the wedding itself. With Happy Honeymoon Travels, we’re bringing Philips’ purpose of ‘turning houses into homes’ to life by helping newlyweds begin their journey with comfort, confidence, and a touch of delight. It’s our way of making those first steps into married life feel effortless and truly special.”

The “Happy Honeymoon Travels” campaign will be active across modern trade and retail outlets through the wedding season. Exclusive offers, limited-time discounts, and interactive gifts will help couples and gift-givers discover smart, meaningful choices for the big celebration and beyond.

About Versuni

Versuni’s purpose is turning houses into homes. As a house of home appliances brands, Versuni markets: Philips, Philips Baristina, Philips Walita, Preethi, Senseo, L’OR Barista, Saeco, and Gaggia. With more than 900 patents to its name, Versuni’s portfolio spans coffee and kitchen appliances, garment care, climate care, and floor care. Philips, Saeco and Gaggia products are sold under trademark license from Koninklijke Philips N.V. Products under the Philips brand include the Airfryer, Espresso Machine with LatteGo, Handheld Steamer, Air Purifier and AquaTrio Cordless Vacuum. Versuni is headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, with innovation, manufacturing, and commercial centers across the globe and a footprint in over 100 countries.

India’s apex industry body for alternative assets, the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA), is set to host the IVCA Circles – Bangalore Edition on 12th November 2025. With the theme “Unlocking India’s Deeptech Potential,” the forum will bring together leading venture capital (VC) investors, private equity (PE) firms, family offices, policymakers, and founders to explore ways to strengthen India’s deeptech innovation ecosystem, capital formation, and policy frameworks. The Department of Electronics, Information Technology and Biotechnology, Government of Karnataka joins as a Partner, along with Capital-A, Peak XV Partners, and WestBridge Capital. IN-SPACe serves as the Knowledge Partner for this edition of IVCA Circles.

India’s Deeptech Ecosystem Takes Centre Stage at IVCA Circles – Bangalore Edition

A highlight of the programme will be a fireside chat on “Karnataka at the Frontier – Powering India’s Deep-Tech Decade” featuring Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology, and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Government of Karnataka, in conversation with Rajan Anandan, Managing Director, Peak XV Partners and Surge, Co-Chair – IVCA VC Council.

The gathering comes at a time when India’s deeptech sector is witnessing strong tailwinds driven by alternate capital and policy momentum. Funding in the sector has grown from $103 million in 2019 to $1.27 billion in 2023, before stabilising at $709 million in 2024. Deeptech’s share in India’s $11-billion VC landscape has expanded from 0.77% to 13.2%, reflecting investors’ increasing confidence in frontier technologies.

Over 3,600 deeptech startups spanning semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, clean energy, material science, space technology, and more have collectively raised over Rs. 34,000 crore since 2020. Corporate venture arms and institutional investors have executed 60+ deeptech transactions since 2022, accounting for nearly a third of India’s R&D-driven deals.

Rajan Anandan, Managing Director, Peak XV Partners and Surge, Co-Chair – IVCA VC Council said, “India’s deeptech ecosystem stands at an inflection point. With a vibrant base of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs, the next wave of global deeptech companies will be built here. The collaboration between private capital, policymakers, and research institutions is critical to unlocking this potential — and forums like IVCA Circles help catalyse that dialogue.”

Ankit Kedia, Founder and Lead Investor, Capital-A, added, “India is rapidly emerging as a global deeptech hub where innovation-driven capital transforms cutting-edge research into real-world impact. At Capital-A, we believe the future of deeptech lies at the intersection of engineering excellence, industrial application, and patient capital. From AI and aerospace to advanced manufacturing and materials, we invest in businesses that redefine industries and strengthen India’s role in global value chains. IVCA Circles in Bangalore embodies this momentum, bringing together visionaries, investors, and policymakers to accelerate India’s rise as a deeptech powerhouse.”

Air Vice Marshal Dhananjay Khot (Retd), Director – Strategy & Planning, IN-SPACe, said, “Space is not just a sunrise sector; it is also a strategic frontier. The Indian space industry stands at an inflection point—poised for explosive growth in scale, speed, and global impact—and this transformation will be powered as much by bold investors as by innovators. I look forward to the IVCA Circles – Bangalore Edition for insightful discussions on space and deeptech, and for opportunities to drive collaboration and collective action that propel us towards a truly Atmanirbhar Bharat.”

The Indian government is simultaneously pushing for deeptech R&D through Fund-of-Funds (FoF) initiatives that mobilise domestic capital and strengthen India’s startup ecosystem. With a Rs. 10,000-crore Deeptech FoF and the newly launched Rs. 1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund under the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, India is laying the groundwork to advance technology sovereignty, attract long-term private capital, and emerge as a global hub for innovation.

Sunitha Prasad, Vice President, IVCA, concluded, “India’s deeptech moment is about translating innovation into self-reliance and global leadership. At IVCA, we aim to build a strong bridge between capital, policy, and science — ensuring India leads the technologies that will define the future. The Bangalore Edition of IVCA Circles carries this vision forward by connecting investors, policymakers, and founders to turn ideas into tangible impact.”

A distinguished line-up of speakers and industry leaders will share insights from across the investment, startup, and deeptech ecosystems, including Ankit Kedia, Founder & Managing Partner, Capital-A; Arpit Agarwal, Investment Partner, Blume Ventures; Arjun Rao, Founding General Partner, Speciale Invest; Air Vice Marshal Dhananjay V. Khot (Retd), Director – Strategy & Planning, IN-SPACe; Dr. Prakash Mugali, Founder & CSO, Enerzi Microwave Systems Pvt. Ltd.; Garima Bharadwaj, Co-founder & CTO, Enlite Research Pvt. Ltd.; Manish Kheterpal, Co-founder & Managing Partner, WaterBridge Ventures, and Vice-Chair, IVCA VC Council; Ritu Verma, Co-founder & Managing Partner, Ankur Capital; Siddarth Pai, Founding Partner, CFO & ESG Officer, 3one4 Capital, and Co-Chair, IVCA Regulatory Affairs Committee; and Swapna Gupta, Partner, Avaana Climate and Sustainability Fund.

About IVCA

The Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA) is a not-for-profit, apex industry body promoting the alternate capital industry and fostering a vibrant investing ecosystem in India. IVCA is committed to supporting the ecosystem by facilitating advocacy discussions with the Government of India, policymakers, and regulators, resulting in the rise of entrepreneurial activity, innovation, and job creation in India and contributing towards the development of India as a leading fund management hub. IVCA represents 500+ funds with a combined AUM of over $350 billion. Our members are the most active domestic and global VCs, PEs, funds for infrastructure, real estate, credit funds, limited partners, investment companies, family offices, corporate VCs, and knowledge partners. These funds invest in emerging companies, venture growth, buyout, special situations, distressed assets, and credit and venture debt, among others.

We are happy to annouce that our JV company Falcon Tech Robotics LLC has signed an agreement with LuLu Group International to deploy 290 Odigo AI-powered robots across LuLu’s hypermarkets and malls in the United Arab Emirates. As one of the region’s most extensive AI robotics deployments, this initiative reflects the rising demand for intelligent automation in the Middle East and reinforces Kody Technolab Ltd’s position as a leader in advanced robotics through its joint venture operations. Click to watch Odigo Live at Lulu Mall.

Odigo at Lulu Mall

Under the agreement, Falcon Tech Robotics LLC will deploy Odigo robots across 60 LuLu locations, including 17 malls and 43 hypermarkets, in a structured two-phase plan on an ad revenue sharing basis. As the joint venture vehicle of Kody Technolab Ltd in the UAE, Falcon Tech Robotics’ selection for this project marks a key achievement for Kody Technolab Ltd, demonstrating how the JV is unlocking large-scale opportunities in the region and validating the company’s capabilities in building globally competitive robotic systems.

Developed and perfected by Kody Technolab Ltd, Odigo integrates autonomous navigation, intelligent advertising, and real-time engagement features to solve some of the most persistent challenges in large-format retail. The platform brings mastery in indoor mobility, precision targeting, and consistent customer communication, capabilities that enable retailers to improve navigation, strengthen promotional visibility, and elevate the in-store experience without increasing operational load on staff.

“This agreement is a major milestone for Falcon Tech Robotics and a strong endorsement of Kody Technolab Ltd’s robotics innovation,” said Manav Patel, Managing Director, Kody Technolab Limited. “A deployment of this scale signals growing international confidence in the technology engineered at Kody Technolab, and we are proud to bring these capabilities to the UAE.”

Falcon Tech Robotics LLC will oversee the manufacturing, deployment, installation, and maintenance of all robots across LuLu Group International’s UAE network. This accomplishment further establishes Kody Technolab Ltd as a globally recognized creator of advanced robotic solutions, reinforcing the company’s growth momentum in international markets.

About Falcon Tech Robotics LLC

Falcon Tech Robotics is a UAE-based joint venture between Kody Technolab Ltd. and Platinum Group for Businessmen Services LLC, dedicated to accelerating robotics adoption across the Middle East. The company deploys advanced AI-driven service and robots powered by Kody Technolab Ltd’s proprietary technology and supported by Platinum Group’s regional market presence.

About Kody Technolab Ltd.

Kody Technolab Ltd is a leading technology company specializing in advanced robotics and AI-driven automation for commercial, retail, and industrial environments. With expertise in software engineering, autonomous navigation, and intelligent systems design, Kody Technolab Ltd develops scalable robotic platforms that power major deployments across the Middle East and Asia.

• As per the nationwide study, India’s actual Ready for Life Index (RLI) stands at a modest 59, compared to a high perceived readiness of 85, indicating a wide gap of 26 points in financial readiness across India’s urban population

• Retirement planning emerges as India’s biggest gap area, with two in three individuals, expecting family support after retirement, despite planning

• Two out of five individuals have an emergency fund to last over four months; two out of five health insurance owners hold a health cover below INR 5 lakh

• The findings also highlight India’s need for long-term protection and financial literacy across income groups and cities

HDFC Life has launched ‘Ready for Life’ – its latest research-based study. This one-of-its-kind report makes an effort to quantify the Financial Readiness Gap – the difference between perceived and actual financial preparedness of individuals.

Vineet Arora, Executive Director & Chief Business Officer, HDFC Life

The Index shows a 26-point gap, which implies that there is a big difference in terms of actual readiness of an individual in comparison to how ready they think they are largely due the lack of action to convert financial planning from merely a plan into reality. In other words, the index reveals that individuals are not well-prepared to handle uncertainties of life across different financial aspects.

About the Study
The Ready for Life Index 2025 is a proprietary research initiative by HDFC Life. This research has been conducted by Ipsos India, an independent market research company. Based on 1,836 face-to-face interviews with working men and women aged between 25–55 years across Metros, Tier 2, and Tier 3 cities*, the study evaluates India’s life readiness across four key pillars — Financial Planning, Emergency Preparedness, Health & Well-being, and Retirement Strategy.

The index aims to highlight the gap between perception and actual preparedness, encouraging a shift from short-term savings to structured, long-term financial planning.

Balancing Confidence and Preparedness — India’s Retirement Reality
The Ready for Life Index 2025 evaluates India’s overall preparedness across life pillars of high importance and finds that though awareness and optimism are visible, preparedness is still uneven.

While consumers hold clear ideal retirement goals, their financial actions and product choices suggest that these goals may be difficult to reach. Of all the pillars, retirement preparedness is the weakest with a 37-point gap between confidence and level of action. Close to half of urban Indians have yet to begin saving for retirement, and two out of every three anticipate support from family after retirement. 

Most respondents who have started planning for retirement, are of the opinion that a corpus of INR 50 lakhs – INR 1 crore would last about 17 years, which could prove to be a gross underestimation considering inflation and lifestyle costs. These results stress on the need for India to move from family-supported financial security to independent retirement planning and also on the need for awareness on financial planning

Financial Planning and Protection — Traditional Strength, Modern Gaps
While Indian customers are inclined towards conventional savings instruments like endowment insurance plans, fixed deposits, and gold, protection and growth-oriented products like term insurance, market linked products, and retirement products are underutilised. 

Term insurance, which is one of the most cost-effective protection instruments, has modest ownership owing to limited product understanding, myths around claim settlement, and belief that premiums offer no return if the policy holder outlives the policy term. While financial discipline is visible to an extent, the savings space remains dominated by traditional products and short-term goals. The real opportunity lies in encouraging systematic, long-term investing to build sustainable wealth and reduce over-reliance on low-growth instruments.

On a positive note, there is increasing awareness about health and wellness. Four in five survey participants actively engage in physical activities to maintain their overall physical and mental well-being. Similarly, two out of three go for yearly health check-ups. But the gap in coverage continues to exist; 2 in 5 respondents have health insurance cover of less than INR 5 lakh. Further, in terms of emergency funds, 2 in 5 individuals possess sufficient savings to meet home expenses for more than four months.

Regional and Tier-wise Insights

The study reveals notable regional variations in financial readiness across India:

• North India shows the widest readiness gap of 30 points, mainly due to weaker emergency and retirement planning

• East India records the most realistic self-assessment with a gap of 20 points, and also displays a traditional and disciplined savings approach

• South India leads in maturity towards financial and health planning

• West India demonstrates a more diversified investment outlook but lower focus on long-term planning

• Tier 3 cities display the lowest preparedness and widest confidence gaps, highlighting the need for deeper financial literacy efforts beyond metros

Click here for the report

Vineet Arora – Executive Director & Chief Business Officer, HDFC Life, shared his thoughts on the study, “The Ready for Life Index reflects India’s growing awareness and optimism about financial planning but also reminds us that true readiness is built through consistent planning and protection. Confidence alone is not enough — preparedness needs structure and action.”

“The findings indicate that retirement remains India’s biggest financial blind spot. Despite higher awareness, the actual action towards long-term security is limited. Through this study, we aim to encourage meaningful conversations around preparedness and protection as essential pillars of financial wellness.”

^*List of cities – Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Jodhpur, Kochi, Vishakhapatnam, Vadodara, Nagpur, Bhubaneshwar, Patna, Muzaffarnagar, Panipat, Thanjavur, Machilipatnam, Anand, Dhule, Bardhaman, Ganjam

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HDFC Life Insurance Co. Ltd. (“HDFC Life”) (i) makes no express or implied representations, warranties or covenants as to the accuracy and/or completeness of the information, data, opinions, commentary, analysis and/or any direct or indirect recommendations included in the Ready for Life Index Study conducted by Ipsos India Pvt. Ltd. (“Study”), and (ii) disclaims any and all damages, costs and liabilities whatsoever to the recipient or reader and or its representatives (tangible or intangible, including, but not limited to loss of business opportunity, loss of profit, loss of market share or loss of goodwill) for any reliance or use made by the recipient or reader and its representatives on the Study, or any errors therein or omissions therefrom.

The report is intended for informational purposes only, and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, taxation, or professional advice by HDFC Life. The recipient or reader and its representatives should not rely solely on this content for making financial decisions, and are advised to seek qualified professional guidance tailored to their personal circumstances. Ipsos India Pvt. Ltd. and the authors disclaim any liability for any direct or indirect losses arising from the use of this report or its content. This report does not constitute an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any financial instrument or product.

epikdoc, India’s leading AI-driven dental platform, today announced the launch of epikdoc Pro, alongside its groundbreaking Patient LLM that thinks like a dentist, a first-of-its-kind tool that empowers patients to seek independent second opinions, view their X-rays with AI-powered clarity, and instantly connect with the right dentist, sorted through the eyes of other dentists, all through a single, seamless interface. The Patient LLM has already facilitated over 13,000 second opinions and continues to grow rapidly, underscoring the strong demand for transparent and reliable dental care in India.

epikdoc, a leading AI-driven dental platform

At the core of this launch is a commitment to addressing one of dentistry’s biggest challenges: trust. India lacks a robust system of primary dental healthcare, leaving patients uncertain about inconsistent treatment plans, non-standardized costs, and insufficient transparency. This erosion of trust has impacted both patients and ethical practitioners. epikdoc aims to change that. By combining preventive AI diagnosis with simplified patient explanations through XrayIQ, boosting doctor productivity with EpikVoice, enhancing efficiency with epikLabs, and enabling direct collaboration among patients, clinics, and labs, epikdoc Pro delivers a unified ecosystem that is transparent, efficient, and centered on patient well-being.

“Dentistry in India has long needed a bridge between patients, practitioners, and labs,” said Dr. Sanjeet Shanker, Founder & CEO, epikdoc. “With epikdoc Pro and Patient LLM, we are not just adding features, we are rebuilding the foundation of trust in oral healthcare. Finally, an AI built by dentists for dentists. By making it an active partner in preventive care, diagnosis, and patient understanding, we are enabling dentists to focus on care while empowering patients with clarity and confidence.”

epikdoc Pro has been designed as a complete platform for the entire dental care journey. Patients benefit from preventive insights, AI-driven second opinions, and enhanced clarity with color-coded X-rays, features that are already driving revenue growth for clinics by up to 30 percent. Doctors save 5–7 hours weekly with intelligent voice-to-notes, CRM tools, recall billing, and streamlined patient engagement. epikLabs, which is currently being tested in three dental labs in India, has also gained from automated workflows. Until now, phone calls and WhatsApp communication have dominated, but these are now replaced with a seamless interface. Technician timers, traceable deliveries, and WhatsApp-enabled pickups ensure efficiency across the value chain.

The platform’s impact is already visible at scale. Since its inception, epikdoc has connected more than 100 clinics, facilitated over 13,000 second opinions, supported 640+ doctors across India, and performed more than 1.8 million AI-powered X-ray reads. These numbers highlight the growing adoption of epikdoc’s technology as the future of oral healthcare.

Looking ahead, epikdoc sees immense opportunity in the dental care ecosystem. With the current addressable market valued at $44 billion, the company is confident about capturing a significant share of it through continued innovation and patient-centric solutions.

About epikdoc
epikdoc is India’s first Dental Super App, built by dentists for dentists. Designed as a connected ecosystem for patients, dentists, and labs, it integrates AI-assisted diagnosis, voice-powered documentation, lab workflows, and secure patient data management. With DPDP and ABHA compliance, epikdoc ensures privacy, transparency, and trust while helping clinics and labs scale operations seamlessly. By bridging patients, doctors, and labs, epikdoc is redefining modern dentistry in India and shaping the future of oral healthcare worldwide.

After three successful shows in Mumbai, the much-awaited fourth edition of Raageet was recently held at Nehru Centre, Worli. Flawlessly organized by Kalangan Creations and Maitri Multicreations, the event witnessed a houseful audience, reaffirming the timeless appeal of classical melodies that inspire Bollywood’s most loved tunes.

Priyani Vani Panditt

The concept of Raageet beautifully bridges the world of classical ragas and Hindi film music, offering audiences not just a concert, but a musical education wrapped in emotion and nostalgia. The evening’s star performer, Priyani Vani Panditt, left the audience spellbound with her soulful renditions and engaging storytelling. Listeners not only hummed along but were deeply moved by her ability to weave history, knowledge, and melody into one seamless experience.

Priyani Vani Panditt getting felicitated

The live band elevated the Raageet experience with their exceptional artistry and seamless coordination. On Keyboard was Anay Gadgil, Sushant Sharma was on Guitar, Farooque Latif Khan on the Sarangi, Ashish Jha on Tabla, Harsh Nasery on Percussions and Raghav Sharma on Bass Guitar. While the harmonious voices of Anurag Patil, Anurag Puranik, Bandita Bharti and Vaishnevi Bhuyar in the chorus added a rich, layered dimension to the concert’s soundscape.

Audience

The show was directed by Geet Lavesh Vani. Creative mind behind the Raageet concept, Ashish Pandit, a noted lyricist in the Indian film industry, continues to bring together art, knowledge, and performance in a format that is both educational and entertaining.

Show Director – Geet Lavesh Vani

Talking about the show, Priyani Vani Panditt shares, “I am deeply grateful to the Mumbai audience for the overwhelming love and response to Raageet. It’s truly heartwarming to see people connect so passionately with our rich musical heritage. Every performance is a celebration of the timeless bond between ragas and Bollywood melodies, and I feel blessed to share that joy with my audience.”

Fresh from her month-long multi-city tour across the US and Canada, Priyani recently performed in Edmonton, Toronto, Calgary, Fort Lauderdale, Lubbock, and Milwaukee, where she also conducted a special workshop titled “Indian Melodies” for western music students at Texas Tech University’s School of Music.

Proudly managed by team Thinkerz, Priyani Vani Panditt has an exciting line-up of performances both in India and abroad. She will soon be performing in Akola, Agra, Jodhpur, Indore and Singapore, enchanting audiences with her soulful renditions. Set to end 2025 on a high note, Priyani already has several sold-out shows lined up for 2026. Continuing her mission to make Indian classical-based melodies more accessible and loved across the world, she remains a true ambassador of musical excellence. 

For more updates, follow Priyani Vani Panditt – www.instagram.com/priyanivanipanditt/?hl=en

The Kenko Life, a Bengaluru-based health-first food company founded by Neeraj Kumar and Vivek Chandran, has raised seed funding to strengthen its foundation and fuel its next phase of growth. The round was led by Rainmatter, Zerodha’s health-focused investment fund, with participation from angel investor Aniketh Jain (Co-founder, Kaleyra). The earlier investment was by Mr R. Raghunathan  (Co-Founder of Prizm Payment Services (now known as Hitachi Payment Services Private Limited) and OPC Asset Solutions).

Founder Neeraj and Co Founder Vivek – Kenko

Since its inception in 2023, The Kenko Life has emerged as one of Bengaluru’s leading health-focused food subscription companies. It currently serves [800+ active subscribers] across the city, operates four cafés, and delivers over [21,000 meals every month], backed by 300% year-on-year topline growth and industry-leading repeat purchase rates. Built on a foundation of nutrition science, everyday convenience, and culinary creativity, Kenko has become the go-to choice for urban consumers and corporates seeking food that’s both healthy and enjoyable.

L to R- Co Founder Vivek, Nithin Kamath and Foudner Neeraj

With this round, Kenko will deepen its operations in Bengaluru and expand to Hyderabad, while investing in product development, technology, and team growth. The funds will be used to expand its product portfolio with clean-ingredient desserts and standardized calorie-counted Indian Thalis, strengthen kitchen capacity and last-mile delivery systems, and build robust technology and data infrastructure for a personalized food experience through a consumer app. Kenko also plans to enhance its nutrition counselling services, build on its eco-friendly packaging solutions across its product lines, and continue to educate urban audiences on the value of calorie- and macro-counted eating through focused marketing initiatives. Over the next 18–24 months, Kenko plans to operate six cafés, launch its mobile app, and introduce two new product lines, Protein Packed Low Calorie No Sugar Desserts and High Protein Indian Thali Meals.

“At Rainmatter, we want to support founders who are solving problems around health and nutrition with a long-term view,” said Nithin Kamath, Founder & CEO, Zerodha. “We are happy to support the team at Kenko who are building solutions around everyday food that is right for you. Healthy food in India has usually been either boring or unaffordable, and Kenko is changing that by making it tasty, accessible, and appropriate for the right nutrition for individuals and families. We believe this is a category that will grow as more Indians become aware of the importance of eating clean and right.”

“People don’t want another diet chart. They want healthy food without the extra effort, food that fits into their day, not food they have to plan their day around. With this round, we’re going all in on what truly sets Kenko apart: science-backed nutrition, consistently measured on a scale, and meals that feel like your home food,” said Neeraj Kumar, Founder of The Kenko Life.

“Healthy eating shouldn’t feel like a compromise; it should feel like a habit you enjoy,” added Vivek Chandran, Co-Founder of The Kenko Life. “This funding allows us to scale that experience, expanding into Hyderabad, building deeper personalization through technology, and making everyday nutrition a way of life for modern India.”

India’s health-focused food services market is valued at $2–3 billion and growing at a 20–25% CAGR. Within this, subscription-based healthy meals are emerging as a fast-growing segment. With its strong community-led growth, deep nutrition expertise, and focus on operational consistency, Kenko is well-positioned to lead the evolution of everyday nutrition in India.

About The Kenko Life
Founded in January 2023, The Kenko Life is a Bengaluru-based health-first food company offering personalized, nutritionist-backed meal subscriptions and clean-ingredient desserts designed for modern Indian lifestyles. By combining data-driven nutrition, everyday accessibility, and culinary innovation, Kenko aims to make eating healthy effortless and enjoyable. 

For more information, visit www.thekenkolife.com